Fabio Vieira has confirmed he will take part in the Club World Cup with FC Porto this summer, describing the tournament as an opportunity to end the season on a high.
The Arsenal loanee, who returned to his boyhood club in search of regular playing time, expressed optimism about Porto’s prospects in the United States.
“You can expect a confident and strong FC Porto,” Vieira told DAZN. “We have been recovering our identity and I think we can do very beautiful things.”
Porto will head into the Club World Cup hoping to make a deep run, despite a domestic campaign that has not met expectations. Vieira made it clear that winning remains the target.
“Every competition we enter is to win,” he said. “This will be no exception. We will see it as a chance to close the season in the best possible way.”
The 24-year-old believes manager Martin Anselmi can guide the team forward, even though he is still early in his coaching career.
“He has very well assimilated ideas,” said Vieira. “His style of play is positive, and he has everything he needs for a great career.”
Vieira’s return to Porto has also been about personal recovery. He admitted that two injury-hit years at Arsenal had left him searching for rhythm and confidence.
“One of the reasons I came here was to get minutes and regain confidence,” he said. “The World Cup is an opportunity to finish well.”
Since rejoining Porto, Vieira has grown into a regular starter and contributed ten goal involvements, helping to raise his profile after a difficult start.
He remains under contract at Arsenal, who loaned him out without an option to buy. However, Porto president Andre Villas-Boas is reportedly interested in extending the midfielder’s stay.
Talks are expected this summer between the two clubs, with a permanent deal potentially on the table if Arsenal are willing to lower their valuation.
Vieira, who cost the Gunners £34 million in 2022, has struggled to adapt to the demands of English football. He made 49 appearances for Arsenal but failed to cement a consistent role.
For now, his focus is on Porto and a Club World Cup campaign that could shape his future. He has even hinted at a dream clash against Boca Juniors, calling it a “battle” he would relish.